Mary Theresa Bernadette Hartnett Ward, 67, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Friday, July 21, 2023. Mary was born on June 4, 1956 in Akron, Ohio to Judge Robert and Rosemary Hartnett. She attended St. Sebastian Parish School, Our Lady of the Elms for high school, and John Carroll University. Mary was a longtime resident of Brecksville, Ohio, where she raised her family with her husband, John Ward. Mary loved children; she volunteered often at hospitals and other non-profit organizations. She also taught for many years at Hobbits Preschool in Richfield, Ohio.
Mary was a vivacious and witty person beloved by many. She was a storyteller who loved to have fun. Time spent with her always involved singing, dancing, and laughing. She was especially fond of the Four Tops’s “Bernadette,” the Commodore’s “Brick House,” and all things Irish. Her personality was infectious and she was a delight to be around. She was generous, loving, and lavished people with gifts and compliments.
Mary was preceded in death by her parents, her sister Nancy Desman, granddaughter Bria Lewis, and her beloved dogs Gracie and Dugan. She is survived by her brother, Robert Hartnett (Sharon), her sisters, Kathleen Desman (dec. Renny) and Alice Edminister (John), her husband, her children, John Ward (Nahall), Katharine Paul (Brian), Meghan Bolwell (Brian), Bridget Lewis (Craig), and her grandchildren, Johnny and Jude Ward, and Robbie Paul.
Mary’s services will be Wednesday, July 26th, 2023 at Ferfolia Funeral Home, located at 356 W. Aurora Rd., Sagamore Hills, OH 44067. Calling hours are 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. The memorial service will start at 5:00 p.m. and dinner will follow.
Mary is deeply loved and missed.
